Quote:
Originally Posted by cookie
Was it really true that Backman went unfined for this episode, while the plate umpire was fined?
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From everything I've seen, yes. Backman
was fined (3-day suspension) for his actions after the game, where he cussed out the radio broadcaster and the GM of the opposing team (they were at an away game). In another video in the series, an executive for the league stated that he wasn't fined or suspended for his on-field actions because the umpire's actions were at fault.
According to the story, Doc chirps after a called strike; on the next pitch (a ball), the umpire ejects Doc. According to Backman, Doc didn't say anything at that point to warrant an ejection. So, Backman comes out to argue, probably to keep his player from getting more than the ejection. Backman asked the umpire what Doc said, and the umpire said, "You can read it in my f&*king report." This sets Backman off.
Backman should have gotten something for his on-field actions. However, the umpire's actions were inexcusable as well. Why would you wait until after the next pitch to eject a player? Then, when the coach comes out and asks what he said, why would you respond the way he did?
Of course, we only have Backman's side of the story.